We've also being fishing slimmer versions: smaller hackle, top maribou tied in at the eye, tight under the palmered hackle. The real trick is to find the right depth that the larger trout are cruising and make the appropriate retrieve, either fast and jerky or slow and steady. Because of the clear water, the Silver Doctor Blue (cerulean blue) is very visible. Purple maribou may be closer to the natural colour of a minnow. bj